On February 28, 2025, the Lagos State House of Assembly nullified a plenary session led by former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. The session took place on February 27 with only four members present out of 40. This number falls far short of the quorum required by assembly rules. Moreover, the session lacked proper notice, an approved agenda, and the ceremonial mace.
Immediately, lawmakers condemned the session. Stephen Ogundipe, Chair of the House Committee on Information, stated, “We will not tolerate constitutional breaches.” He stressed that the assembly must uphold high parliamentary standards. He also voiced full support for the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda. During a press briefing on February 28, 2025, Ogundipe declared, “We stand firmly by our constitution and our speaker’s leadership.”
Mudashiru Obasa faces heavy controversy. He lost his position on January 13, 2025, when 36 lawmakers voted against him while he was abroad. Obasa quickly challenged his removal, claiming that his dismissal did not follow due process. He filed a legal suit to contest the impeachment. On February 28, Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja ordered the inclusion of all assembly members as parties to his lawsuit. The court scheduled a hearing for March 7, 2025, to resolve the pending applications in his case.
Simultaneously, the nullification of the session deepened the leadership crisis in the assembly. Many lawmakers criticized Obasa for convening a meeting without following the rules. They argued that his actions damage the institution’s credibility and disrupt the legislative process. Consequently, the assembly members now face increased pressure to restore proper order.
In parallel, security issues also emerged. The Lagos State Police Command briefly withdrew security for Speaker Meranda during an audit of personnel and firearms. However, Commissioner of Police Moshood Jimoh confirmed on February 28, 2025, that her security team returned immediately after the audit ended. This incident added another layer of tension to the crisis.
Furthermore, internal divisions spread within the All Progressives Congress’ Governor’s Advisory Council. Some council members continue to support Obasa, while others back Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. This split has stirred intense debate within the party and among the public. Many citizens and political observers worry that the leadership dispute weakens governance in Lagos.
Public concern grows as the crisis unfolds. Observers argue that such internal conflicts impair the state’s ability to implement effective policies. They believe these disputes erode public trust in governance. In addition, the legal challenge from Obasa adds complexity to the political landscape. Many hope the assembly will soon reaffirm its commitment to constitutional norms and restore order.
Moreover, the assembly faces a critical moment as legal proceedings continue and political allegiances shift. Lawmakers and citizens now watch every development closely. They expect swift action to resolve the dispute and ensure transparency. The coming weeks will prove vital as the court addresses Obasa’s impeachment challenge. The assembly also must strengthen its adherence to democratic principles.
Ultimately, the events of February 27 and 28, 2025, mark a turning point for Lagos politics. The assembly’s decisive move to nullify the session reflects a firm stand for legislative integrity. At the same time, the controversy over Obasa’s removal and legal battle highlights deep divisions within the political system. Moving forward, Lagos lawmakers face the challenge of restoring order and public confidence in their institution. This leadership crisis calls for unity, strict adherence to the constitution, and rapid resolution of internal disputes.